Sensor module

Abstract

A sensor module is provided with: a flexible substrate having flexibility and having an upper main surface and a lower main surface arranged in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate; and a first sensor including a first piezoelectric thin film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented in a first orientation direction by being uniaxially stretched, the first sensor being provided on the lower main surface and outputting a first signal corresponding to a deformation of the flexible substrate, the upper main surface and the lower main surface have a rectangular shape having a front side and a rear side extending in the left-right direction and a left side and a right side extending in the front-back direction, and the first sensor is configured to overlap with a first center line extending in the front-back direction and passing through a midpoint of the front side when viewed in the thickness direction. And the first orientation direction is parallel to the front-back direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sensor module including a sensor for detecting deformation of a flexible substrate. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 describes an electronic device for detecting a press. The electronic device includes a press sensor, a surface panel, and a buffer member. The surface panel, the buffer member, and the press sensor are stacked in this order along the negative direction of the Z axis. The user presses the surface panel. At this time, a force is applied to the press sensor via the buffer member, thereby pressing the press sensor. The press sensor outputs a signal corresponding to the amount of press.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2019 / 021981 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In the field of electronic devices described in Patent Document 1, there is a desire to identify a position where a flexible base material has deformed.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a sensor module capable of identifying a position where a flexible substrate has been deformed.

[0009] Solutions for solving problems

[0010] A sensor module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0011] A flexible substrate having flexibility, the flexible substrate having an upper main surface and a lower main surface arranged in a thickness direction of the flexible substrate; and

[0012] a first sensor including a first piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented along a first orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the first sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a first signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate;

[0013] The upper main surface and the lower main surface are rectangular in shape with a front side and a rear side extending in the left-right direction and a left side and a right side extending in the front-back direction.

[0014] The first sensor is arranged to overlap with a first center line extending in the front-rear direction and passing through a midpoint of the front side when viewed in the thickness direction, and the first orientation direction is parallel to the front-rear direction.

[0015] A sensor module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0016] A flexible substrate having flexibility, the flexible substrate having an upper main surface and a lower main surface arranged in a thickness direction of the flexible substrate; and

[0017] a first sensor including a first piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented along a first orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the first sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a first signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate;

[0018] The upper main surface and the lower main surface are rectangular in shape with a front side and a rear side extending in the left-right direction and a left side and a right side extending in the front-back direction.

[0019] The diagonal line of the flexible substrate when viewed from above is defined as a first diagonal line,

[0020] The first sensor is arranged to overlap with the first diagonal line when viewed along the thickness direction, and the first orientation direction is parallel to the first diagonal line.

[0021] In the following, X and Y are components or members of the sensor module. In this specification, unless otherwise specified, the various parts of X are defined as follows. The upper part of X refers to the upper half of X. The upper end of X refers to the end in the upper direction of X. The upper end of X refers to the upper end of X and its vicinity. This definition also applies to directions other than the upper direction.

[0022] In addition, "X is located above Y" means that X is located directly above Y. Therefore, when viewed in the up-down direction, X overlaps with Y. "X is located above Y" means that X is located directly above Y and X is located obliquely above Y. Therefore, when viewed in the up-down direction, X may overlap with Y or may not overlap with Y. This definition also applies to directions other than the upward direction.

[0023] In this specification, unless otherwise specified, the various parts of the first member are defined as follows. The front part of the first member refers to the front half of the first member. The rear part of the first member refers to the rear half of the first member. The left part of the first member refers to the left half of the first member. The right part of the first member refers to the right half of the first member. The upper part of the first member refers to the upper half of the first member. The lower part of the first member refers to the lower half of the first member. The front end of the first member refers to the end of the first member in the front direction. The rear end of the first member refers to the end of the first member in the rear direction. The left end of the first member refers to the end of the first member in the left direction. The right end of the first member refers to the end of the first member in the right direction. The upper end of the first member refers to the end of the first member in the upper direction. The lower end of the first member refers to the end of the first member in the lower direction. The front end of the first member refers to the front end of the first member and its vicinity. The rear end of the first member refers to the rear end of the first member and its vicinity. The left end of the first member refers to the left end of the first member and its vicinity. The right end of the first member refers to the right end of the first member and its vicinity. The upper end of the first member refers to the upper end of the first member and its vicinity. The lower end portion of the first member refers to the lower end of the first member and the vicinity thereof.

[0024] Effects of the Invention

[0025] According to the sensor module of the present invention, it is possible to identify the position where the flexible base is deformed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device EE including the sensor module 1 according to the first embodiment when viewed from the right direction.

[0027] Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing the structure of the first sensor 12 a.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the flexible base 11 and the first sensor 12a as viewed from above.

[0029] Figure 4A : is a diagram showing an example of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a when the left area ArL is deformed. Figure 4B : is a diagram showing an example of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a when the right area ArR is deformed.

[0030] Figure 5 It is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of the calculation circuit 13.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the first sensor 12a included in the sensor module 1a as viewed from above.

[0032] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the first sensor 12a included in the sensor module 1b as viewed from above.

[0033] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing a first sensor 12a and a second sensor 12b included in the sensor module 1c as viewed from above.

[0034] Fig. 9 This is a diagram showing the first sensor 12a and the second sensor 12b included in the sensor module 1d as viewed from above.

[0035] Fig.10 This is a diagram showing the first sensor 12a and the second sensor 12b included in the sensor module 1e as viewed from above.

[0036] Fig.11 This is a diagram showing the first sensor 12a, the second sensor 12b, the third sensor 12c, and the fourth sensor 12d included in the sensor module 1f as viewed from above.

[0037] Fig.12 This is a diagram showing the first sensor 12a included in the sensor module 1g as viewed from above.

[0038] Fig.13 This is a diagram showing the first sensor 12a included in the sensor module 1h as viewed from above.

[0039] Fig.14 This is a diagram showing the first sensor 12a and the second sensor 12b included in the sensor module 1i as viewed from above.

[0040] Fig.15 This is a diagram showing the first sensor 12a, the second sensor 12b, the third sensor 12c, and the fourth sensor 12d included in the sensor module 1j as viewed from above. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] [First embodiment]

[0042] Hereinafter, a sensor module 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device EE including the sensor module 1 according to the first embodiment when viewed from the right direction. Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing the structure of the first sensor 12 a. Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the flexible base 11 and the first sensor 12a as viewed from above.

[0043] In this embodiment, directions are defined as follows. Figure 1As shown in FIG. 1 , the direction in which the upper main surface UF11 and the lower main surface DF11 of the flexible substrate 11 are arranged in this order is defined as the downward direction. The direction in which the lower main surface DF11 and the upper main surface UF11 are arranged in this order is defined as the upward direction. The upward and downward directions coincide with the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11. Figure 3 As shown, the direction parallel to the direction in which the long side of the flexible substrate 11 extends is defined as the left-right direction. The left-right direction is orthogonal to the up-down direction. The direction parallel to the direction in which the short side of the flexible substrate 11 extends is defined as the front-back direction. The front-back direction is orthogonal to the up-down direction and the left-right direction. However, the up-down direction, the left-right direction, and the front-back direction are directions defined for the purpose of explanation. Therefore, the up-down direction, the left-right direction, and the front-back direction when the sensor module 1 is actually used may not necessarily be consistent with the up-down direction, the left-right direction, and the front-back direction in this embodiment. In addition, in this embodiment, the top view represents the state when the flexible substrate 11 is observed from the downward direction.

[0044] In this embodiment, if Figure 1 As shown, the sensor module 1 is a module provided in an electronic device EE such as a smart phone. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the sensor module 1 includes a flexible substrate 11 , a first sensor 12 a , and a calculation circuit 13 .

[0045] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the flexible base material 11 has an upper main surface UF11 and a lower main surface DF11 arranged in the thickness direction of the flexible base material 11. The upper main surface UF11 and the lower main surface DF11 are arranged in this order along the lower direction. The upper main surface UF11 and the lower main surface DF11 have a rectangular shape including a front side and a rear side extending in the left-right direction and a left side and a right side extending in the front-back direction.

[0046] The flexible substrate 11 has flexibility. Therefore, the flexible substrate 11 is deformed by an external force applied to the flexible substrate 11. For example, Figure 1 As shown, the user 200 presses the upper main surface UF11 of the flexible base 11 downward. The flexible base 11 is deformed by the downward force applied to the flexible base 11. The flexible base 11 is, for example, a substrate having electronic components such as an organic EL display and a circuit board.

[0047] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first sensor 12a has a rectangular shape including a long side extending in the front-rear direction and a short side extending in the left-right direction. The first sensor 12a is smaller than the flexible substrate 11. Figure 2 As shown, the first sensor 12a includes an upper electrode 120, a first piezoelectric film 121a, a lower electrode 122, a charge amplifier (not shown) and an AD converter (not shown).

[0048] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible base 11, the first piezoelectric film 121a has a sheet shape including short sides extending in the left-right direction and long sides extending in the front-back direction. Figure 2 As shown, the first piezoelectric film 121 a has a first piezoelectric film upper principal surface SF1 and a first piezoelectric film lower principal surface SF2 arranged in the thickness direction of the flexible base 11 .

[0049] The first piezoelectric film 121a generates an electric charge corresponding to the deformation amount of the first piezoelectric film 121a. Specifically, the first piezoelectric film 121a generates an electric charge corresponding to the differential value of the displacement of the first piezoelectric film 121a. The first piezoelectric film 121a has piezoelectricity when the molecules are oriented by uniaxial stretching. For example, the first piezoelectric film 121a is a film formed by a chiral polymer. The chiral polymer refers to polylactic acid (PLA), in particular L-type polylactic acid (PLLA). The main chain of PLLA composed of chiral polymers has a helical structure. PLLA has piezoelectricity when the molecules are oriented by uniaxial stretching. The first piezoelectric film 121a has a piezoelectric constant of d14. Below, the direction in which the molecules of the first piezoelectric film 121a are oriented is defined as the first orientation direction ODa.

[0050] In this embodiment, if Figure 3 As shown, the first sensor 12a is configured so that the first orientation direction ODa is parallel to the front-to-back direction. The first orientation direction ODa forms an angle of 0 or 180 degrees relative to the front-to-back direction. The 0 degree includes, for example, an angle of about 0 degrees ± 10 degrees. Similarly, the 180 degrees includes, for example, an angle of about 180 degrees ± 10 degrees. The first piezoelectric film 121a has the following characteristics: the polarity of the charge generated when the first piezoelectric film 121a is stretched in the right front direction or the left rear direction is opposite to the polarity of the charge generated when the first piezoelectric film 121a is stretched in the right rear direction or the left front direction. For example, the first piezoelectric film 121a generates negative charge when stretched in the right front direction or the left rear direction. The first piezoelectric film 121a generates positive charge when compressed in the right front direction or the left rear direction, for example. The first piezoelectric film 121a generates positive charge when stretched in the right rear direction or the left front direction, for example. The first piezoelectric film 121a generates negative charge when compressed in the right rear direction or the left front direction, for example. The magnitude of the generated charge depends on the differential value of the deformation amount of the first piezoelectric film 121a caused by tension or compression.

[0051] The upper electrode 120 is a ground electrode. The upper electrode 120 is electrically connected to the ground potential. The upper electrode 120 has an upper main surface and a lower main surface arranged in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11. The upper electrode 120 is fixed to the upper main surface SF1 of the first piezoelectric film by an adhesive material (not shown). The upper electrode 120 covers the upper main surface SF1 of the first piezoelectric film.

[0052] The lower electrode 122 is a signal electrode. The lower electrode 122 has an upper main surface and a lower main surface arranged in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11. The lower electrode 122 is fixed to the lower main surface SF2 of the first piezoelectric film by an adhesive material (not shown). Figure 2 As shown, the lower electrode 122 covers the lower main surface SF2 of the first piezoelectric film.

[0053] The charge amplifier converts the charge generated by the first piezoelectric film 121a into a voltage signal. The AD converter generates the first signal Sig1 by performing AD conversion on the voltage signal.

[0054] The first sensor 12a is provided on the lower main surface DF11 of the flexible base material 11. The first sensor 12a is fixed to the lower main surface DF11 of the flexible base material 11 by an adhesive material (not shown). Thus, the first sensor 12a expands and contracts in the front direction, the rear direction, the left direction, or the right direction as the flexible base material 11 is deformed. The first sensor 12a outputs a first signal Sig1 corresponding to the deformation of the flexible base material 11.

[0055] In this embodiment, the first sensor 12a is disposed near the center in the left-right direction of the flexible substrate 11. Figure 3 As shown, a straight line passing through the midpoint CP1 of the front side of the lower main surface DF11 and extending in the front-rear direction is defined as a first center line CB1. When viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible base 11, the first sensor 12a overlaps with the first center line CB1.

[0056] In this embodiment, the first sensor 12a is located at the front of the flexible substrate 11. Specifically, Figure 3 The center of gravity G12a of the first sensor 12a is defined as shown in FIG. In addition, the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11 is defined. When viewed along the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the center of gravity G12a of the first sensor 12a is located in front of the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11. In this specification, unless otherwise specified, the center of gravity G12a of the first sensor 12a or the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11 refers to the center of gravity when viewed from above. Therefore, the center of gravity in this specification is the center of gravity in a two-dimensional plane.

[0057] Below, as Figure 3As shown in FIG. 1 , an area located to the right of the center of gravity G12a of the first sensor 12a is defined as the right area ArR. Similarly, an area located to the left of the center of gravity G12a of the first sensor 12a is defined as the left area ArL. In the present embodiment, when viewed along the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the right area ArR is located to the right and rear of the center of gravity G12a of the first sensor 12a. When viewed along the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the left area ArL is located to the left and rear of the center of gravity G12a of the first sensor 12a.

[0058] In the case of the structure shown above, the polarity of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a with respect to the reference potential VF when the right area ArR is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a with respect to the reference potential VF when the left area ArL is pressed downward. This will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0059] Figure 4A : is a diagram showing an example of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a when the left area ArL is deformed. Figure 4B : is a diagram showing an example of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a when the right area ArR is deformed. Figure 4A and Figure 4B The horizontal axis of the graph in represents time. Figure 4A and Figure 4B The vertical axis of the graph in represents the output value of the first signal Sig1. Figure 4A and Figure 4B The time t1 in FIG. 2 is the time when the user 200 starts pressing the flexible base 11 . Figure 4A and Figure 4B The time t2 in FIG. 1 is a time after the time t1 , and is a time when the user 200 finishes pressing the flexible base 11 . Figure 4A and Figure 4B The time t3 in FIG. 1 is later than the time t2.

[0060] For example, in Figure 4A At time t1 shown in FIG. 1 , the user 200 presses the left area ArL, and the first piezoelectric film 121a is stretched in the left rear direction. In this case, the first piezoelectric film 121a outputs positive charge. Figure 4AAs shown, the first sensor 12a outputs the first signal Sig1 having a positive polarity relative to the reference potential VF during the period from time t1 to time t2. Then, at time t2, the user 200 stops pressing the left area ArL. At this time, the first sensor 12a is trying to return to its shape before deformation due to the stress generated in the first sensor 12a. Due to this stress, the first piezoelectric film 121a is compressed in the right-front direction. In this case, the first piezoelectric film 121a outputs a negative charge. Therefore, as Figure 4A As shown, at time t3 after time t2, the first sensor 12a outputs the first signal Sig1 having a negative polarity with respect to the reference potential VF.

[0061] On the other hand, when Figure 4B When the user 200 presses the right area ArR at the time t1 shown, the first piezoelectric film 121a is stretched in the right rear direction. In this case, the first piezoelectric film 121a outputs negative charge. Figure 4A As shown, the first sensor 12a outputs the first signal Sig1 having a negative polarity relative to the reference potential VF during the period from time t1 to time t2. Next, when the user 200 stops pressing the right area ArR at time t2, the first sensor 12a recovers to its shape before deformation due to the stress generated in the first sensor 12a. Due to this stress, the first piezoelectric film 121a is compressed in the left-front direction. In this case, the first piezoelectric film 121a outputs a positive charge. Therefore, as Figure 4B As shown, at time t3 after time t2, the first sensor 12a outputs the first signal Sig1 having a positive polarity with respect to the reference potential VF.

[0062] For example, Figure 1 As shown, the operation circuit 13 is provided on the lower main surface DF11 of the flexible substrate 11. For example, when the flexible substrate 11 is a substrate having electronic components such as an organic EL display and a circuit board, the operation circuit 13 is provided on the circuit board. The operation circuit 13 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0063] The operation circuit 13 receives the first signal Sig1 outputted by the first sensor 12a and performs a process of determining the position where the flexible substrate 11 is pressed downward based on the first signal Sig1 outputted by the first sensor 12a (hereinafter referred to as a process P). The process P will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Figure 5 It is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of the calculation circuit 13.

[0064] For example, the operation circuit 13 starts processing P( Figure 5After the start, the operation circuit 13 determines the polarity of the first signal Sig1 relative to the reference potential VF ( Figure 6 :Step S11).

[0065] Next, the calculation circuit 13 determines whether the right region ArR or the left region ArL has deformed based on the first signal Sig1 ( Figure 5 : Step S12). In this embodiment, the operation circuit 13 determines whether the right area ArR or the left area ArL is deformed based on the polarity of the first signal Sig1 relative to the reference potential VF. For example, the operation circuit 13 determines whether the right area ArR or the left area ArL is deformed. Figure 4A When receiving the first signal Sig1 having a positive polarity with respect to the reference potential VF and then receiving the first signal Sig1 having a negative polarity with respect to the reference potential VF as shown in FIG. Figure 4B As shown, when the first signal Sig1 having a negative polarity with respect to the reference potential VF is received and then the first signal Sig1 having a positive polarity with respect to the reference potential VF is received, it is determined that the right region ArR is deformed.

[0066] By executing the processing of step S11 and step S12, the operation circuit 13 completes the processing P( Figure 5 :Finish).

[0067] (Effect)

[0068] According to the sensor module 1, the position where the flexible substrate 11 is deformed can be determined without providing the first sensor 12a on the entire surface of the lower main surface DF11 of the flexible substrate 11. Specifically, the first piezoelectric film 121a has piezoelectricity in which the molecules are oriented in the first orientation direction ODa by uniaxial stretching. The first sensor 12a is configured so that the first orientation direction ODa is parallel to the front-back direction. When observed along the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the first sensor 12a overlaps with the first center line CB1. In the case of the above structure, the polarity of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a with respect to the reference potential VF when the right area ArR is pressed in the downward direction is different from the polarity of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a with respect to the reference potential VF when the left area ArL is pressed in the downward direction. Therefore, the operation circuit 13 can determine whether the user 200 presses the right area ArR or the left area ArL by determining the polarity of the first signal Sig1.

[0069] In the present embodiment, when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the center of gravity G12a of the first sensor 12a is located in front of the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11. As a result, the areas of the right region ArR and the left region ArL are larger than those of the sensor module (hereinafter referred to as Comparative Example 1) in which the center of gravity of the first sensor coincides with the center of gravity of the flexible substrate. Therefore, the operation circuit 13 can determine the deformation of the flexible substrate 11 in a larger area than that in Comparative Example 1.

[0070] [Modification 1]

[0071] Next, a sensor module 1 a according to Modification 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 6 This is a diagram of the first sensor 12a included in the sensor module 1a as viewed from above. In the configuration of the sensor module 1a, only the parts that are different from the configuration of the sensor module 1 will be described, and the description of the parts that are the same as the configuration of the sensor module 1 will be omitted.

[0072] like Figure 6 As shown, the sensor module 1a is different from the sensor module 1 in that the long sides of the flexible base 11 extend in the front-rear direction and the short sides of the flexible base 11 extend in the left-right direction. The sensor module 1a has the same effects as the sensor module 1.

[0073] [Modification 2]

[0074] Next, a sensor module 1 b according to a second modification will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 7 This is a diagram of the first sensor 12a included in the sensor module 1b as viewed from above. In the configuration of the sensor module 1b, only the parts that are different from the configuration of the sensor module 1 will be described, and the description of the parts that are the same as the configuration of the sensor module 1 will be omitted.

[0075] like Figure 7 As shown, the sensor module 1b is different from the sensor module 1 in that the first sensor 12a overlaps the outer edge of the flexible base 11 when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible base 11. Specifically, the first sensor 12a is in contact with the midpoint CP1 of the front side of the lower main surface DF11.

[0076] (Effect)

[0077] According to the sensor module 1b, it is easier to determine the position where the flexible substrate 11 has deformed. Specifically, the first sensor 12a is in contact with the midpoint CP1 of the front side of the lower main surface DF11. In the case of the above-mentioned structure, the center of gravity G12a of the first sensor 12a in the sensor module 1b is located in front of the center of gravity G12a of the first sensor 12a in the sensor module 1. In this case, the area of ​​the right area ArR and the area of ​​the left area ArL in the sensor module 1b become larger than the area of ​​the right area ArR and the area of ​​the left area ArL in the sensor module 1. Therefore, the operation circuit 13 can determine the deformation of the flexible substrate 11 in a larger area than the sensor module 1.

[0078] [Variation 3]

[0079] Next, a sensor module 1 c according to a third modification will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 8 The figure shows the first sensor 12a and the second sensor 12b of the sensor module 1c as viewed from above. In the structure of the sensor module 1b, only the parts different from the structure of the sensor module 1 are described, and the description of the parts identical to the structure of the sensor module 1 is omitted.

[0080] like Figure 8 As shown, the sensor module 1c is different from the sensor module 1 in that it further includes a second sensor 12b. The second sensor 12b is provided on the lower main surface DF11 of the flexible base 11. The second sensor 12b outputs a second signal Sig2 corresponding to the deformation of the flexible base 11.

[0081] The second sensor 12b includes a second piezoelectric film 121b. The second piezoelectric film 121b has piezoelectricity in which the molecules are oriented along the second orientation direction ODb when stretched uniaxially. In this modification, the second sensor 12b is configured so that the second orientation direction ODb is parallel to the front-to-back direction. When observed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the second sensor 12b overlaps with the first center line CB1. When observed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the center of gravity G12b of the second sensor 12b is located at a rearward position relative to the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11. In this modification, the right area ArR is located at a position to the right and in front of the center of gravity G12b. The left area ArL is located at a position to the left and in front of the center of gravity G12b.

[0082] The polarity of the second signal Sig2 output from the second sensor 12b with respect to the reference potential VF when the right area ArR is pressed in the downward direction is different from the polarity of the second signal Sig2 output from the second sensor 12b with respect to the reference potential VF when the left area ArL is pressed in the downward direction. For example, when the left area ArL is pressed by the user 200, the second sensor 12b outputs the second signal Sig2 with negative polarity with respect to the reference potential VF. On the other hand, when the right area ArR is pressed by the user 200, the second sensor 12b outputs the second signal Sig2 with positive polarity with respect to the reference potential VF.

[0083] The operation circuit 13 determines whether the right area ArR is pressed or the left area ArL is pressed based on the first signal Sig1 and the second signal Sig2. In this modification, the operation circuit 13 inverts the second signal Sig2 received from the second sensor 12b relative to the reference potential VF. In this case, when the left area ArL is pressed by the user 200, the polarity of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a is the same as the polarity of the second signal Sig2 output from the second sensor 12b. When the right area ArR is pressed by the user 200, the polarity of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a is the same as the polarity of the second signal Sig2 output from the second sensor 12b.

[0084] (Effect)

[0085] According to the sensor module 1c, the sensor module 1c is more likely to determine the deformation of the flexible substrate 11. For example, in a sensor module not having a second sensor (hereinafter referred to as Comparative Example 2), when the user presses the rear end of the right area or the rear end of the left area, the deformation amount of the first sensor is small. In this case, in Comparative Example 2, the value of the signal output from the first sensor is small. Therefore, in Comparative Example 2, there is a possibility that the operation circuit cannot determine the deformation of the flexible member. On the other hand, the sensor module 1c also has a second sensor 12b. When viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the second sensor 12b overlaps with the first center line CB1. When viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the center of gravity G12b of the second sensor 12b is located at a position behind the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11. In this case, when the user 200 presses the rear end of the right area ArR or the rear end of the left area ArL, the second sensor 12b is deformed. Therefore, the calculation circuit 13 can identify the position where the flexible base material 11 has deformed using the second signal Sig2 having a larger output value than the first signal Sig1 .

[0086] [Variation 4]

[0087] Next, a sensor module 1d according to a fourth modification will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 9 The figure shows the first sensor 12a and the second sensor 12b of the sensor module 1d as viewed from above. In the structure of the sensor module 1d, only the parts that are different from the structure of the sensor module 1c are described, and the description of the parts that are the same as the structure of the sensor module 1c is omitted.

[0088] In this variation, if Fig. 9 As shown, the front end of the first sensor 12a is connected to the midpoint CP1 of the front side of the lower main surface DF11. The rear end of the second sensor 12b is connected to the midpoint CP2 of the rear side of the lower main surface DF11. The sensor module 1d has the same effect as the sensor module 1b and the same effect as the sensor module 1c.

[0089] [Variation 5]

[0090] Next, a sensor module 1 e according to a fifth modification will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig.10 The figure shows the first sensor 12a and the second sensor 12b of the sensor module 1e as viewed from above. In the structure of the sensor module 1e, only the parts that are different from the structure of the sensor module 1c are described, and the description of the parts that are the same as the structure of the sensor module 1c is omitted.

[0091] In this variation, if Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 , the second sensor 12b is configured so that the second orientation direction ODb is parallel to the left-right direction. In addition, a straight line passing through the midpoint CP3 on the right side of the lower main surface DF11 and extending in the left-right direction is defined as a second center line CB2. The second sensor 12b overlaps the second center line CB2. When viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the center of gravity G12b of the second sensor 12b is located to the right of the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11.

[0092] Below, as Fig.10As shown, the area located in front of the center of gravity G12b of the second sensor 12b is defined as the front area ArF. The area located behind the center of gravity G12b of the second sensor 12b is defined as the rear area ArB. In this modified example, the front area ArF includes the right front area ArRF and the left front area ArLF. The right front area ArRF is located to the right and behind the center of gravity G12a. The right front area ArRF is located to the front and left of the center of gravity G12b. The left front area ArLF is located to the left and behind the center of gravity G12a. The left front area ArLF is located to the front and left of the center of gravity G12b. The rear area ArB includes the right rear area ArRB and the left rear area ArLB. The right rear area ArRB is located to the right and behind the center of gravity G12a. The right rear area ArRB is located to the rear and left of the center of gravity G12b. The left rear area ArLB is located to the left and behind the center of gravity G12a. The left rear region ArLB is located behind and to the left of the center of gravity G12b. In this modification, the right region ArR includes the right front region ArRF and the right rear region ArRB. The left region ArL includes the left front region ArLF and the left rear region ArLB.

[0093] In the case of this modification, the polarity of the second signal Sig2 output from the second sensor 12b with respect to the reference potential VF when the front area ArF is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the second signal Sig2 output from the second sensor 12b with respect to the reference potential VF when the rear area ArB is pressed downward. Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the right front region ArRF or the left front region ArLF is pressed, the polarity of the second signal Sig2 relative to the reference potential VF is positive. On the other hand, when the right rear region ArRB or the left rear region ArLB is pressed, the polarity of the second signal Sig2 relative to the reference potential VF is negative. The operation circuit 13 determines whether the front region ArF is pressed or the rear region ArB is pressed based on the second signal Sig2.

[0094] (Effect)

[0095] In the case of this modification, for example, Fig.10As shown, when the right front area ArRF is pressed, the polarity of the first signal Sig1 relative to the reference potential VF is negative, and the polarity of the second signal Sig2 relative to the reference potential VF is positive. When the left front area ArLF is pressed, the polarity of the first signal Sig1 relative to the reference potential VF is positive, and the polarity of the second signal Sig2 relative to the reference potential VF is positive. When the right rear area ArRB is pressed, the polarity of the first signal Sig1 relative to the reference potential VF is negative, and the polarity of the second signal Sig2 relative to the reference potential VF is negative. When the left rear area ArLB is pressed, the polarity of the first signal Sig1 relative to the reference potential VF is positive, and the polarity of the second signal Sig2 relative to the reference potential VF is negative. Therefore, the operation circuit 13 in the sensor module 1e can determine which area of ​​the right front area ArRF, the left front area ArLF, the right rear area ArRB, and the left rear area ArLB is pressed by judging the combination of the polarity of the first signal Sig1 relative to the reference potential VF and the polarity of the second signal Sig2 relative to the reference potential VF.

[0096] [Variation 6]

[0097] Next, a sensor module 1f according to a sixth modification will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig.11 The figure shows the first sensor 12a, the second sensor 12b, the third sensor 12c and the fourth sensor 12d of the sensor module 1f as viewed from above. In addition, in the structure of the sensor module 1f, only the parts that are different from the structure of the sensor module 1e are described, and the description of the parts that are the same as the sensor module 1e is omitted.

[0098] like Fig.11 As shown, the difference between the sensor module 1f and the sensor module 1e is that the sensor module 1f further includes a third sensor 12c and a fourth sensor 12d. The third sensor 12c and the fourth sensor 12d are provided on the lower main surface DF11 of the flexible substrate 11. The third sensor 12c outputs a third signal Sig3 corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate 11. The fourth sensor 12d outputs a fourth signal Sig4 corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate 11.

[0099] The third sensor 12c includes a third piezoelectric film 121c. The third piezoelectric film 121c has piezoelectricity in which the molecules are oriented along the third orientation direction ODc when uniaxially stretched. In this modified example, the third sensor 12c is configured so that the third orientation direction ODc is parallel to the front-back direction. When observed along the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the third sensor 12c overlaps with the first center line CB1. When observed along the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the center of gravity G12c of the third sensor 12c is located at a position rearward of the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11. The polarity of the third signal Sig3 output from the third sensor 12c with respect to the reference potential VF when the right area ArR is pressed in the downward direction is different from the polarity of the third signal Sig3 output from the third sensor 12c with respect to the reference potential VF when the left area ArL is pressed in the downward direction.

[0100] The fourth sensor 12d includes a fourth piezoelectric film 121d. The fourth piezoelectric film 121d has piezoelectricity in which the molecules are oriented along the fourth orientation direction ODd when uniaxially stretched. In this modification, the fourth sensor 12d is configured so that the fourth orientation direction ODd is parallel to the left-right direction. When observed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the fourth sensor 12d overlaps with the second center line CB2. When observed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the center of gravity G12d of the fourth sensor 12d is located to the left of the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11. The polarity of the fourth signal Sig4 output from the fourth sensor 12d with respect to the reference potential VF when the front area ArF is pressed in the downward direction is different from the polarity of the fourth signal Sig4 output from the fourth sensor 12d with respect to the reference potential VF when the rear area ArB is pressed in the downward direction.

[0101] In this variation, if Fig.11 As shown, the right front area ArRF is located at a position to the right and front of the center of gravity G12c. The right front area ArRF is located at a position to the front and right of the center of gravity G12d. The left front area ArLF is located at a position to the left and front of the center of gravity G12c. The left front area ArLF is located at a position to the front and right of the center of gravity G12d. The right rear area ArRB is located at a position to the right and front of the center of gravity G12c. The right rear area ArRB is located at a position to the rear and right of the center of gravity G12d. The left rear area ArLB is located at a position to the left and front of the center of gravity G12c. The left rear area ArLB is located at a position to the rear and right of the center of gravity G12d.

[0102] The operation circuit 13 determines whether the right area ArR or the left area ArL is pressed based on the first signal Sig1 and the third signal Sig3 . Also, the operation circuit 13 determines whether the front area ArF or the back area ArB is pressed based on the second signal Sig2 and the fourth signal Sig4 .

[0103] (Effect)

[0104] The sensor module 1f has the same effects as those of the sensor module 1e and the sensor module 1c.

[0105] [Variation 7]

[0106] Next, a sensor module 1g according to a seventh modification will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig.12 This is a diagram of the first sensor 12a included in the sensor module 1g as viewed from above. In the configuration of the sensor module 1g, only the parts that are different from the configuration of the sensor module 1 will be described, and the description of the parts that are the same as the configuration of the sensor module 1 will be omitted.

[0107] In this modification, the first orientation direction ODa is oriented to the right and forward direction. Fig.12 As shown, the diagonal line of the flexible substrate 11 when looking down on the flexible substrate 11 is defined as the first diagonal line TK1. In this modification, the first diagonal line TK1 connects the right front angle RFA formed by the right side and the front side of the lower main surface DF11 and the left rear angle LBA formed by the left side and the rear side of the lower main surface DF11. In this modification, the first sensor 12a is configured so that the first orientation direction ODa is parallel to the first diagonal line TK1. When observed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the first sensor 12a overlaps with the first diagonal line TK1. The center of gravity G12a of the first sensor 12a is located in front of the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11. In this case, when observed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the distance from the center of gravity G12a of the first sensor 12a to the right front angle RFA is shorter than the distance from the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11 to the right front angle RFA. Below, the area of ​​the lower main surface DF11 located in front of the first diagonal line TK1 is defined as the front area ArFF. In this modification, the front area ArFF is surrounded by the first diagonal line TK1, the left side of the lower main surface DF11, and the front side of the lower main surface DF11. Similarly, the area of ​​the lower main surface DF11 located behind the first diagonal line TK1 is defined as the back area ArBB. In this modification, the back area ArBB is surrounded by the first diagonal line TK1, the right side and the back side of the flexible substrate 11.

[0108] Here, if Fig.12 As shown, a first straight line SL1 is defined, extending in parallel with the first orientation direction ODa when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, and passing through the center of gravity G12a of the first sensor 12a. In this modification, the front area ArFF and the back area ArBB are located to the left of the first straight line SL1.

[0109] The polarity of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a relative to the reference potential VF when the front area ArFF is pressed in the downward direction is different from the polarity of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a relative to the reference potential VF when the rear area ArBB is pressed in the downward direction. The operation circuit 13 determines whether the front area ArFF is pressed or the rear area ArBB is pressed based on the first signal Sig1. In this modified example, the operation circuit 13 determines whether the front area ArFF is pressed or the rear area ArBB is pressed based on the polarity of the first signal Sig1 relative to the reference potential VF. For example, when the operation circuit 13 receives the first signal Sig1 with a positive polarity from the first sensor 12a, it determines that the rear area ArBB has been deformed. In addition, for example, when the operation circuit 13 receives the first signal Sig1 with a negative polarity from the first sensor 12a, it determines that the front area ArFF has been deformed.

[0110] (Effect)

[0111] According to the sensor module 1 g , the position where the flexible base 11 is deformed can be identified for the same reason as the sensor module 1 .

[0112] [Variation 8]

[0113] Next, a sensor module 1h according to Modification 8 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig.13 This is a diagram of the first sensor 12a included in the sensor module 1h as viewed from above. In the configuration of the sensor module 1h, only the parts that are different from the configuration of the sensor module 1g will be described, and the description of the parts that are the same as the configuration of the sensor module 1g will be omitted.

[0114] In this modification, the first sensor 12a is in contact with the outer periphery of the lower main surface DF11 when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11. Specifically, the outer periphery of the lower main surface DF11 refers to the front side, the rear side, the right side, or the left side of the lower main surface DF11. Fig.13 As shown, the first sensor 12a is in contact with the front side and / or the right side of the lower main surface DF11. The sensor module 1h has the same effect as the sensor module 1g and the sensor module 1b.

[0115] [Variation 9]

[0116] Next, a sensor module 1i according to a ninth modification will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig.14The figure shows the first sensor 12a and the second sensor 12b of the sensor module 1i as viewed from above. In the structure of the sensor module 1i, only the parts that are different from the structure of the sensor module 1h are described, and the description of the parts that are the same as the structure of the sensor module 1h is omitted.

[0117] In this variation, the sensor module 1i further includes a second sensor 12b. A diagonal line of the flexible substrate 11 different from the first diagonal line TK1 when viewed from above is defined as a second diagonal line TK2. In this variation, the second diagonal line TK2 connects a right rear corner RBA formed by the right and rear sides of the lower main surface DF11 and a left front corner LFA formed by the left and front sides of the lower main surface DF11. When viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the second sensor 12b overlaps with the second diagonal line TK2. Fig.14 As shown in FIG. 1 , the second sensor 12 b is arranged so that the second orientation direction ODb is parallel to the second diagonal line TK2. The center of gravity G12 b of the second sensor 12 b is located at a position rearward of the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11. In this case, when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the distance from the center of gravity G12 b of the second sensor 12 b to the right rear corner RBA is shorter than the distance from the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11 to the right rear corner RBA.

[0118] Below, as Fig.14 As shown, the area located in front of the first diagonal line TK1 and in front of the second diagonal line TK2 is defined as the front area ArF1. The area located in front of the first diagonal line TK1 and behind the second diagonal line TK2 is defined as the left area ArL1. The area located behind the first diagonal line TK1 and in front of the second diagonal line TK2 is defined as the right area ArR1. The area located behind the first diagonal line TK1 and behind the second diagonal line TK2 is defined as the back area ArB1. The front area ArF1 is surrounded by the first diagonal line TK1, the second diagonal line TK2 and the front edge of the lower main surface DF11. The left area ArL1 is surrounded by the first diagonal line TK1, the second diagonal line TK2 and the left side of the lower main surface DF11. The right area ArR1 is surrounded by the first diagonal line TK1, the second diagonal line TK2 and the right side of the lower main surface DF11. The rear area ArB1 is surrounded by the first diagonal line TK1 , the second diagonal line TK2 , and the rear edge of the lower main surface DF11 .

[0119] Here, if Fig.14The second straight line SL2 is defined as shown in the figure, and the second straight line SL2 extends in a direction parallel to the second orientation direction ODb when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, and passes through the center of gravity G12b of the second sensor 12b. In this modified example, the front area ArF1, the left area ArL1, the right area ArR1, and the back area ArB1 are located to the left of the first straight line SL1, and to the left of the second straight line SL2.

[0120] In this modification, the polarity of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a with respect to the reference potential when the front region ArF1 or the left region ArL1 is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the first signal Sig1 output from the first sensor 12a with respect to the reference potential when the rear region ArB1 or the right region ArR1 is pressed downward. The operation circuit 13 determines whether the front region ArF1 or the left region ArL1 is pressed or the rear region ArB1 or the right region ArR1 is pressed based on the first signal Sig1.

[0121] In addition, the polarity of the second signal Sig2 output from the second sensor 12b with respect to the reference potential when the front region ArF1 or the right region ArR1 is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the second signal Sig2 output from the second sensor 12b with respect to the reference potential when the rear region ArB1 or the left region ArL1 is pressed downward. The operation circuit 13 determines whether the front region ArF1 or the right region ArR1 is pressed or the left region ArL1 or the rear region ArB1 is pressed based on the second signal Sig2.

[0122] In addition, the other structures of the second sensor 12b in the sensor module 1i are the same as those of the second sensor 12b in the sensor module 1c, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

[0123] (Effect)

[0124] The sensor module 1i can determine which of the four regions of the flexible base 11 is pressed for the same reason as the sensor module 1e.

[0125] [Variation 10]

[0126] Next, a sensor module 1j according to a modification 10 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig.15 The figure shows the first sensor 12a, the second sensor 12b, the third sensor 12c and the fourth sensor 12d of the sensor module 1j as viewed from the upper direction. In addition, in the structure of the sensor module 1j, only the parts that are different from the structure of the sensor module 1i are described, and the description of the parts that are the same as the structure of the sensor module 1i is omitted.

[0127] like Fig.15 As shown, the sensor module 1j is different from the sensor module 1i in that the sensor module 1j includes a third sensor 12c and a fourth sensor 12d.

[0128] In this modification, the third sensor 12c is configured so that the third orientation direction ODc is parallel to the first diagonal line TK1. When viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the third sensor 12c overlaps the first diagonal line TK1. The center of gravity G12c of the third sensor 12c is located at a position rearward of the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11. When viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the distance from the center of gravity G12c of the third sensor 12c to the left rear corner LBA is shorter than the distance from the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11 to the left rear corner LBA. The polarity of the third signal Sig3 output from the third sensor 12c with respect to the reference potential when the front area ArF1 or the left area ArL1 is pressed in the downward direction is different from the polarity of the third signal Sig3 output from the third sensor 12c with respect to the reference potential when the rear area ArB1 or the right area ArR1 is pressed in the downward direction.

[0129] In this modification, the fourth sensor 12d is configured so that the fourth orientation direction ODd is parallel to the second diagonal line TK2. When viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the fourth sensor 12d overlaps the second diagonal line TK2. The center of gravity G12d of the fourth sensor 12d is located at a position rearward of the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11. When viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the distance from the center of gravity G12d of the fourth sensor 12d to the left front corner LFA is shorter than the distance from the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11 to the left front corner LFA. The polarity of the fourth signal Sig4 output from the fourth sensor 12d with respect to the reference potential when the front area ArF1 or the right area ArR1 is pressed in the downward direction is different from the polarity of the fourth signal Sig4 output from the fourth sensor 12d with respect to the reference potential when the rear area ArB1 or the left area ArL1 is pressed in the downward direction.

[0130] Here, if Fig.15 As shown in FIG. 1 , a third straight line SL3 is defined, which extends in a direction parallel to the third orientation direction ODc when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11 and passes through the center of gravity G12c of the third sensor 12c. In addition, a fourth straight line SL4 is defined, which extends in a direction parallel to the fourth orientation direction ODd when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11 and passes through the center of gravity G12d of the fourth sensor 12d. In this modified example, the front area ArF1, the left area ArL1, the right area ArR1, and the back area ArB1 are located to the right of the third straight line SL3 and to the right of the fourth straight line SL4.

[0131] In this modification, the operation circuit 13 determines whether the front area ArF1 or the left area ArL1 is pressed or the rear area ArB1 or the right area ArR1 is pressed based on the first signal Sig1 and the third signal Sig3. In addition, the operation circuit 13 determines whether the front area ArF1 or the right area ArR1 is pressed or the left area ArL1 or the rear area ArB1 is pressed based on the second signal Sig2 and the fourth signal Sig4.

[0132] In addition, other structures of the third sensor 12c and the fourth sensor 12d in the sensor module 1j are the same as those of the third sensor 12c and the fourth sensor 12d in the sensor module 1f, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

[0133] (Effect)

[0134] The sensor module 1j has the same effects as those of the sensor module 1i and the sensor module 1f.

[0135] [Other Modifications]

[0136] The present invention is not limited to the sensor modules 1 and 1 to 1i, and can be modified within the scope of the gist thereof. In addition, the structures of the sensor modules 1 and 1 to 1i can be arbitrarily combined.

[0137] Furthermore, the flexible base material 11 does not necessarily have to include the organic EL display and the circuit board. For example, the flexible base material 11 may include electronic components other than the organic EL display and the circuit board.

[0138] Furthermore, the flexible base material 11 may have a square shape when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible base material 11 .

[0139] In addition, the first sensor 12a does not necessarily need to include a charge amplifier (not shown) and an AD converter (not shown). For example, the electronic device EE may include a charge amplifier and an AD converter. In this case, the operation circuit 13 receives the first signal Sig1 converted by the charge amplifier and the AD converter included in the electronic device EE.

[0140] In the sensor module 1 , as long as the first sensor 12 a overlaps with the first center line CB1 when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible base 11 , the center of gravity G12 a of the first sensor 12 a does not necessarily overlap with the first center line CB1 when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible base 11 .

[0141] Furthermore, in the sensor modules 1 and 1 a , the center of gravity G12 a of the first sensor 12 a may be located rearward of the center of gravity G11 of the flexible base 11 when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible base 11 .

[0142] Furthermore, in the sensor module 1 b , the first sensor 12 a may be in contact with the midpoint of the rear side of the lower main surface DF11 .

[0143] In addition, in the sensor module 1c, the second orientation direction ODb may also be consistent with the front direction. In this case, the operation circuit 13 does not invert the output of the second signal Sig2 relative to the reference potential VF. As a result, the sensor module 1d has the same effect as when the second orientation direction ODb is consistent with the rear direction. Similarly, in the sensor module 1d, the second orientation direction ODb may also be consistent with the front direction.

[0144] In the sensor module 1e, the front end of the first sensor 12a may be in contact with the midpoint CP1 of the front side of the lower main surface DF11, and the right end of the second sensor 12b may be in contact with the midpoint CP3 of the right side of the flexible base 11. Thus, the sensor module 1e has the same effect as the sensor module 1b.

[0145] Furthermore, in the sensor module 1f, the front end of the first sensor 12a may be in contact with the midpoint CP1 of the front side of the lower main surface DF11, the right end of the second sensor 12b may be in contact with the midpoint CP3 of the right side of the flexible base material 11, the rear end of the third sensor 12c may be in contact with the midpoint of the rear side of the lower main surface DF11, and the left end of the fourth sensor 12d may be in contact with the midpoint of the left side of the lower main surface DF11. In this case, the sensor module 1f has the same effect as the sensor module 1b.

[0146] In addition, the sensor module 1h may also include a second sensor 12b, which is arranged to overlap with the first diagonal line TK1 when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, and the second orientation direction ODb is parallel to the first diagonal line TK1. The center of gravity G12b of the second sensor 12b is located at a position behind the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11. In this case, when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible substrate 11, the distance from the center of gravity G12b of the second sensor 12b to the left rear corner LBA is shorter than the distance from the center of gravity G11 of the flexible substrate 11 to the left rear corner LBA. In such a sensor module 1h, the polarity of the second signal Sig2 output from the second sensor 12b with respect to the reference potential VF when the front area ArFF is pressed in the downward direction is different from the polarity of the second signal Sig2 output from the second sensor 12b with respect to the reference potential VF when the rear area ArBB is pressed in the downward direction. The calculation circuit 13 determines whether the front area ArFF is pressed or the rear area ArBB is pressed based on the first signal Sig1 and the second signal Sig2. According to the above configuration, the sensor module 1h has the same effect as the sensor module 1c.

[0147] Furthermore, in the sensor module 1 h , the first sensor 12 a may be in contact with the front side of the lower main surface DF11 and the right side of the lower main surface DF11 .

[0148] Furthermore, when the sensor module 1h includes the second sensor 12b, the first sensor 12a and the second sensor 12b may each be in contact with the outer periphery of the lower main surface DF11 when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible base material 11. For example, the first sensor 12a may be in contact with the right side and / or the front side of the lower main surface DF11, and the second sensor 12b may be in contact with the left side and / or the rear side of the lower main surface DF11, whereby the sensor module 1h has the same effect as the sensor module 1d.

[0149] Furthermore, in the sensor module 1 h , the first sensor 12 a may be in contact with the rear side and / or the left side of the flexible base 11 .

[0150] Furthermore, in the sensor module 1i, when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible base material 11, the first sensor 12a and the second sensor 12b may each be in contact with the outer periphery of the lower main surface DF11. For example, the first sensor 12a may be in contact with the front edge of the lower main surface DF11 and / or the right side of the lower main surface DF11, and the second sensor 12b may be in contact with the rear edge of the lower main surface DF11 and / or the right side of the lower main surface DF11. Such a sensor module 1i has the same effect as the sensor module 1b.

[0151] Furthermore, in the sensor module 1j, when viewed in the thickness direction of the flexible base material 11, the first sensor 12a, the second sensor 12b, the third sensor 12c, and the fourth sensor 12d may each be in contact with the outer periphery of the lower main surface DF11. For example, the first sensor 12a may be in contact with the front edge and / or the right side of the lower main surface DF11, the second sensor 12b may be in contact with the rear edge and / or the right side of the lower main surface DF11, the third sensor 12c may be in contact with the rear edge and / or the left side of the lower main surface DF11, and the fourth sensor 12d may be in contact with the front edge and / or the left side of the lower main surface DF11. In this case, the sensor module 1j has the same effect as the sensor module 1h.

[0152] The present invention has the following construction.

[0153] (1) A sensor module comprising:

[0154] A flexible substrate having flexibility, the flexible substrate having an upper main surface and a lower main surface arranged in a thickness direction of the flexible substrate; and

[0155] a first sensor including a first piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented along a first orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the first sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a first signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate;

[0156] The upper main surface and the lower main surface are rectangular in shape with a front side and a rear side extending in the left-right direction and a left side and a right side extending in the front-back direction.

[0157] The first sensor is arranged to overlap with a first center line extending in the front-rear direction and passing through a midpoint of the front side when viewed in the thickness direction, and the first orientation direction is parallel to the front-rear direction.

[0158] (2) The sensor module according to (1), wherein:

[0159] The first sensor is connected to the midpoint of the front side or the midpoint of the rear side.

[0160] (3) The sensor module according to (1) or (2), wherein:

[0161] The sensor module further includes a computing circuit.

[0162] When viewed along the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the first sensor is located in front of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate or in the rear of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate.

[0163] An area located to the right of the center of gravity of the first sensor is defined as a right area.

[0164] An area located to the left of the center of gravity of the first sensor is defined as a left area.

[0165] The polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the right area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the left area is pressed downward.

[0166] The arithmetic circuit determines whether the right region is pressed or the left region is pressed based on the first signal.

[0167] (4) The sensor module according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein:

[0168] The sensor module further includes a second sensor including a second piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented in a second orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the second sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a second signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate.

[0169] The second sensor is arranged so that the second orientation direction is parallel to the front-rear direction,

[0170] When viewed along the thickness direction, the second sensor overlaps the first center line,

[0171] When viewed along the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the first sensor is located forward of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate.

[0172] When viewed in the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the second sensor is located rearward of the center of gravity of the flexible base.

[0173] (5) The sensor module according to (4), wherein:

[0174] The front end of the first sensor is connected to the midpoint of the front edge,

[0175] The rear end of the second sensor is connected to the midpoint of the rear edge.

[0176] (6) The sensor module according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein:

[0177] The sensor module further includes a second sensor including a second piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented in a second orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the second sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a second signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate.

[0178] The second sensor is configured to overlap with a second center line extending in the left-right direction and passing through the midpoint of the right side when viewed in the thickness direction, and the second orientation direction is parallel to the left-right direction,

[0179] When viewed along the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the first sensor is located forward of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate.

[0180] When viewed in the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the second sensor is located to the right of the center of gravity of the flexible base.

[0181] (7) The sensor module according to (6), wherein:

[0182] The front end of the first sensor is connected to the midpoint of the front edge,

[0183] The right end of the second sensor is connected to the midpoint of the right side.

[0184] (8) The sensor module according to (6) or (7), wherein:

[0185] The sensor module further includes a computing circuit.

[0186] An area located to the right of the center of gravity of the first sensor is defined as a right area.

[0187] An area located to the left of the center of gravity of the first sensor is defined as a left area.

[0188] An area located forward of the center of gravity of the second sensor is defined as a front area,

[0189] An area located behind the center of gravity of the second sensor is defined as a rear area,

[0190] The polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the right area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the left area is pressed downward.

[0191] The polarity of the second signal output from the second sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the second signal output from the second sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area is pressed downward.

[0192] The operation circuit determines whether the right area is pressed or the left area is pressed based on the first signal,

[0193] The arithmetic circuit determines whether the front region is pressed or the rear region is pressed based on the second signal.

[0194] (9) The sensor module according to (8), wherein:

[0195] The sensor module also has:

[0196] a third sensor including a third piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented in a third orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the third sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a third signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate; and

[0197] a fourth sensor including a fourth piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented along a fourth orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the fourth sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a fourth signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate,

[0198] The third sensor is configured so that the third orientation direction is parallel to the front-rear direction,

[0199] When viewed along the thickness direction, the third sensor overlaps the first center line,

[0200] When viewed along the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the third sensor is located behind the center of gravity of the flexible substrate.

[0201] The fourth sensor is configured so that the fourth orientation direction is parallel to the left-right direction,

[0202] When viewed along the thickness direction, the fourth sensor overlaps the second center line,

[0203] When viewed along the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the fourth sensor is located to the left of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate.

[0204] The polarity of the third signal output from the third sensor with respect to the reference potential when the right area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the third signal output from the third sensor with respect to the reference potential when the left area is pressed downward.

[0205] The polarity of the fourth signal output from the fourth sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the fourth signal output from the fourth sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area is pressed downward.

[0206] The operation circuit determines whether the right area is pressed or the left area is pressed based on the first signal and the third signal,

[0207] The arithmetic circuit determines whether the front region is pressed or the rear region is pressed based on the second signal and the fourth signal.

[0208] (10) The sensor module according to (9), wherein:

[0209] The front end of the first sensor is connected to the midpoint of the front edge,

[0210] The right end of the second sensor is connected to the midpoint of the right side,

[0211] The rear end of the third sensor is connected to the midpoint of the rear edge,

[0212] The left end of the fourth sensor is connected to the midpoint of the left side.

[0213] (11) A sensor module comprising:

[0214] A flexible substrate having flexibility, the flexible substrate having an upper main surface and a lower main surface arranged in a thickness direction of the flexible substrate; and

[0215] a first sensor including a first piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented along a first orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the first sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a first signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate;

[0216] The upper main surface and the lower main surface are rectangular in shape with a front side and a rear side extending in the left-right direction and a left side and a right side extending in the front-back direction.

[0217] The diagonal line of the flexible substrate when viewed from above is defined as a first diagonal line,

[0218] The first sensor is arranged to overlap with the first diagonal line when viewed along the thickness direction, and the first orientation direction is parallel to the first diagonal line.

[0219] (12) The sensor module according to (11), wherein:

[0220] The first sensor is in contact with an outer peripheral portion of the lower main surface when viewed in the thickness direction.

[0221] (13) The sensor module according to (11) or (12), wherein:

[0222] The sensor module further includes a computing circuit.

[0223] An area located in front of the first diagonal line is defined as a front area.

[0224] A region located further back than the first diagonal line is defined as a rear region,

[0225] The polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area is pressed downward.

[0226] The arithmetic circuit determines whether the front region is pressed or the rear region is pressed based on the first signal.

[0227] (14) The sensor module according to any one of (11) to (13), wherein:

[0228] The sensor module further includes a second sensor including a second piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented in a second orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the second sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a second signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate.

[0229] The second sensor is configured to overlap with the first diagonal line when viewed along the thickness direction, and the second orientation direction is parallel to the first diagonal line,

[0230] The center of gravity of the first sensor is located forward of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate.

[0231] The center of gravity of the second sensor is located rearward of the center of gravity of the flexible base.

[0232] (15) The sensor module according to (14), wherein:

[0233] When viewed in the thickness direction, the first sensor and the second sensor are each in contact with an outer peripheral portion of the lower main surface.

[0234] (16) The sensor module according to any one of (11) to (13), wherein:

[0235] The sensor module further includes a second sensor including a second piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented in a second orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the second sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a second signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate.

[0236] A diagonal line of the flexible substrate different from the first diagonal line when viewed from above is defined as a second diagonal line,

[0237] The second sensor is arranged to overlap with the second diagonal line when viewed along the thickness direction, and the second orientation direction is parallel to the second diagonal line.

[0238] (17) The sensor module according to (16), wherein:

[0239] When viewed in the thickness direction, the first sensor and the second sensor are each in contact with an outer peripheral portion of the lower main surface.

[0240] (18) The sensor module according to (16) or (17), wherein:

[0241] The sensor module further includes a computing circuit.

[0242] The first diagonal line connects a right front corner formed by the right side and the front side and a left rear corner formed by the left side and the rear side,

[0243] The second diagonal line connects a right rear corner formed by the right side and the rear side and a left front corner formed by the left side and the front side,

[0244] A region located in front of the first diagonal line and in front of the second diagonal line is defined as a front region,

[0245] A region located in front of the first diagonal line and behind the second diagonal line is defined as a left region,

[0246] A region located behind the first diagonal line and in front of the second diagonal line is defined as a right region,

[0247] A region located behind the first diagonal line and behind the second diagonal line is defined as a rear region,

[0248] The polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area or the left area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area or the right area is pressed downward,

[0249] The polarity of the second signal output from the second sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area or the right area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the second signal output from the second sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area or the left area is pressed downward,

[0250] The operation circuit determines whether the front area or the left area is pressed or the rear area or the right area is pressed based on the first signal,

[0251] The arithmetic circuit determines whether the front region or the right region is pressed or the left region or the rear region is pressed based on the second signal.

[0252] (19) The sensor module according to (18), wherein:

[0253] The sensor module also has:

[0254] a third sensor including a third piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented in a third orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the third sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a third signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate; and

[0255] a fourth sensor including a fourth piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented along a fourth orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the fourth sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a fourth signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate,

[0256] The third sensor is configured to overlap with the first diagonal line when viewed along the thickness direction, and the third orientation direction is parallel to the first diagonal line,

[0257] The fourth sensor is configured to overlap with the second diagonal line when viewed along the thickness direction, and the fourth orientation direction is parallel to the second diagonal line,

[0258] The center of gravity of the first sensor is located forward of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate.

[0259] The center of gravity of the second sensor is located behind the center of gravity of the flexible substrate.

[0260] The center of gravity of the third sensor is located behind the center of gravity of the flexible substrate.

[0261] The center of gravity of the fourth sensor is located forward of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate.

[0262] The polarity of the third signal output from the third sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area or the left area is pressed in the downward direction is different from the polarity of the third signal output from the third sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area or the right area is pressed in the downward direction.

[0263] The polarity of the fourth signal output from the fourth sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area or the right area is pressed in the downward direction is different from the polarity of the fourth signal output from the fourth sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area or the left area is pressed in the downward direction.

[0264] The operation circuit determines whether the front area or the left area is pressed or the rear area or the right area is pressed based on the first signal and the third signal,

[0265] The arithmetic circuit determines whether the front region or the right region is pressed or the left region or the rear region is pressed based on the second signal and the fourth signal.

[0266] (20) The sensor module according to (19), wherein:

[0267] When viewed in the thickness direction, each of the first sensor, the second sensor, the third sensor, and the fourth sensor is in contact with an outer peripheral portion of the lower main surface.

[0268] Description of Reference Numerals

[0269] 1. 1a~1j: sensor module; 11: flexible substrate; 12a: first sensor; 121a: first piezoelectric film; ODa: first orientation direction; Sig1: first signal; CB1: first center line; TK1: first diagonal line; UF11: upper main surface; DF11: lower main surface; CP1: midpoint.

Claims

1. A sensor module comprising: A flexible substrate having flexibility, the flexible substrate having an upper main surface and a lower main surface arranged in a thickness direction of the flexible substrate; and a first sensor including a first piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented along a first orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the first sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a first signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate; in, The upper main surface and the lower main surface are rectangular in shape with a front side and a rear side extending in the left-right direction and a left side and a right side extending in the front-back direction, The first sensor is arranged to overlap with a first center line extending in the front-rear direction and passing through a midpoint of the front side when viewed in the thickness direction, and the first orientation direction is parallel to the front-rear direction.

2. The sensor module according to claim 1, wherein: The first sensor is connected to the midpoint of the front side or the midpoint of the rear side.

3. The sensor module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The sensor module further includes a computing circuit. When viewed along the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the first sensor is located in front of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate or in the rear of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate. An area located to the right of the center of gravity of the first sensor is defined as a right area. An area located to the left of the center of gravity of the first sensor is defined as a left area. The polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the right area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the left area is pressed downward. The arithmetic circuit determines whether the right region is pressed or the left region is pressed based on the first signal.

4. The sensor module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The sensor module further includes a second sensor including a second piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented in a second orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the second sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a second signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate. The second sensor is arranged so that the second orientation direction is parallel to the front-rear direction, When viewed along the thickness direction, the second sensor overlaps the first center line, When viewed along the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the first sensor is located forward of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate. When viewed in the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the second sensor is located rearward of the center of gravity of the flexible base.

5. The sensor module according to claim 4, wherein: The front end of the first sensor is connected to the midpoint of the front edge, The rear end of the second sensor is connected to the midpoint of the rear edge.

6. The sensor module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The sensor module further includes a second sensor including a second piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented in a second orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the second sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a second signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate. The second sensor is configured to overlap with a second center line extending in the left-right direction and passing through the midpoint of the right side when viewed in the thickness direction, and the second orientation direction is parallel to the left-right direction, When viewed along the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the first sensor is located forward of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate. When viewed in the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the second sensor is located to the right of the center of gravity of the flexible base.

7. The sensor module according to claim 6, wherein: The front end of the first sensor is connected to the midpoint of the front edge, The right end of the second sensor is connected to the midpoint of the right side.

8. The sensor module according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: The sensor module further includes a computing circuit. An area located to the right of the center of gravity of the first sensor is defined as a right area. An area located to the left of the center of gravity of the first sensor is defined as a left area. An area located forward of the center of gravity of the second sensor is defined as a front area, An area located behind the center of gravity of the second sensor is defined as a rear area, The polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the right area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the left area is pressed downward. The polarity of the second signal output from the second sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the second signal output from the second sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area is pressed downward. The operation circuit determines whether the right area is pressed or the left area is pressed based on the first signal, The arithmetic circuit determines whether the front region is pressed or the rear region is pressed based on the second signal.

9. The sensor module according to claim 8, wherein: The sensor module also has: A third sensor including a third piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity that is uniaxially stretched and has molecules oriented in a third orientation direction, the third sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a third signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate; as well as a fourth sensor including a fourth piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented along a fourth orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the fourth sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a fourth signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate, The third sensor is configured so that the third orientation direction is parallel to the front-rear direction, When viewed along the thickness direction, the third sensor overlaps the first center line, When viewed along the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the third sensor is located behind the center of gravity of the flexible substrate. The fourth sensor is configured so that the fourth orientation direction is parallel to the left-right direction, When viewed along the thickness direction, the fourth sensor overlaps the second center line, When viewed along the thickness direction, the center of gravity of the fourth sensor is located to the left of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate. The polarity of the third signal output from the third sensor with respect to the reference potential when the right area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the third signal output from the third sensor with respect to the reference potential when the left area is pressed downward. The polarity of the fourth signal output from the fourth sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the fourth signal output from the fourth sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area is pressed downward. The operation circuit determines whether the right area is pressed or the left area is pressed based on the first signal and the third signal, The arithmetic circuit determines whether the front region is pressed or the rear region is pressed based on the second signal and the fourth signal.

10. The sensor module according to claim 9, wherein: The front end of the first sensor is connected to the midpoint of the front edge, The right end of the second sensor is connected to the midpoint of the right side, The rear end of the third sensor is connected to the midpoint of the rear edge, The left end of the fourth sensor is connected to the midpoint of the left side.

11. A sensor module comprising: A flexible substrate having flexibility, the flexible substrate having an upper main surface and a lower main surface arranged in a thickness direction of the flexible substrate; and a first sensor including a first piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented along a first orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the first sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a first signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate; in, The upper main surface and the lower main surface are rectangular in shape with a front side and a rear side extending in the left-right direction and a left side and a right side extending in the front-back direction, The diagonal line of the flexible substrate when viewed from above is defined as a first diagonal line, The first sensor is arranged to overlap with the first diagonal line when viewed along the thickness direction, and the first orientation direction is parallel to the first diagonal line.

12. The sensor module according to claim 11, wherein: The first sensor is in contact with an outer peripheral portion of the lower main surface when viewed in the thickness direction.

13. The sensor module according to claim 11 or 12, wherein: The sensor module further includes a computing circuit. An area located in front of the first diagonal line is defined as a front area. A region located further back than the first diagonal line is defined as a rear region, The polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area is pressed downward. The arithmetic circuit determines whether the front region is pressed or the rear region is pressed based on the first signal.

14. The sensor module according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: The sensor module further includes a second sensor including a second piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented in a second orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the second sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a second signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate. The second sensor is configured to overlap with the first diagonal line when viewed along the thickness direction, and the second orientation direction is parallel to the first diagonal line, The center of gravity of the first sensor is located forward of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate. The center of gravity of the second sensor is located rearward of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate.

15. The sensor module according to claim 14, wherein: When viewed in the thickness direction, the first sensor and the second sensor are each in contact with an outer peripheral portion of the lower main surface.

16. The sensor module according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: The sensor module further includes a second sensor including a second piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented in a second orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the second sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a second signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate. A diagonal line of the flexible substrate different from the first diagonal line when viewed from above is defined as a second diagonal line, The second sensor is arranged to overlap with the second diagonal line when viewed along the thickness direction, and the second orientation direction is parallel to the second diagonal line.

17. The sensor module according to claim 16, wherein: When viewed in the thickness direction, the first sensor and the second sensor are each in contact with an outer peripheral portion of the lower main surface.

18. The sensor module according to claim 16 or 17, wherein: The sensor module further includes a computing circuit. The first diagonal line connects a right front corner formed by the right side and the front side and a left rear corner formed by the left side and the rear side, The second diagonal line connects a right rear corner formed by the right side and the rear side and a left front corner formed by the left side and the front side, A region located in front of the first diagonal line and in front of the second diagonal line is defined as a front region, A region located in front of the first diagonal line and behind the second diagonal line is defined as a left region, A region located behind the first diagonal line and in front of the second diagonal line is defined as a right region, A region located behind the first diagonal line and behind the second diagonal line is defined as a rear region, The polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area or the left area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the first signal output from the first sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area or the right area is pressed downward, The polarity of the second signal output from the second sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area or the right area is pressed downward is different from the polarity of the second signal output from the second sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area or the left area is pressed downward, The operation circuit determines whether the front area or the left area is pressed or the rear area or the right area is pressed based on the first signal, The arithmetic circuit determines whether the front region or the right region is pressed or the left region or the rear region is pressed based on the second signal.

19. The sensor module according to claim 18, wherein: The sensor module also has: A third sensor including a third piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity that is uniaxially stretched and has molecules oriented in a third orientation direction, the third sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a third signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate; as well as a fourth sensor including a fourth piezoelectric film having piezoelectricity in which molecules are oriented along a fourth orientation direction when uniaxially stretched, the fourth sensor being disposed on the lower main surface and outputting a fourth signal corresponding to the deformation of the flexible substrate, The third sensor is configured to overlap with the first diagonal line when viewed along the thickness direction, and the third orientation direction is parallel to the first diagonal line, The fourth sensor is configured to overlap with the second diagonal line when viewed along the thickness direction, and the fourth orientation direction is parallel to the second diagonal line, The center of gravity of the first sensor is located forward of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate. The center of gravity of the second sensor is located behind the center of gravity of the flexible substrate. The center of gravity of the third sensor is located behind the center of gravity of the flexible substrate. The center of gravity of the fourth sensor is located forward of the center of gravity of the flexible substrate. The polarity of the third signal output from the third sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area or the left area is pressed in the downward direction is different from the polarity of the third signal output from the third sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area or the right area is pressed in the downward direction. The polarity of the fourth signal output from the fourth sensor with respect to the reference potential when the front area or the right area is pressed in the downward direction is different from the polarity of the fourth signal output from the fourth sensor with respect to the reference potential when the rear area or the left area is pressed in the downward direction. The operation circuit determines whether the front area or the left area is pressed or the rear area or the right area is pressed based on the first signal and the third signal, The arithmetic circuit determines whether the front region or the right region is pressed or the left region or the rear region is pressed based on the second signal and the fourth signal.

20. The sensor module according to claim 19, wherein: When viewed in the thickness direction, each of the first sensor, the second sensor, the third sensor, and the fourth sensor is in contact with an outer peripheral portion of the lower main surface.

Images